I have just a few things I expect from my dog, but he’s just not doing them.

I don’t think I’m being unreasonable.

I concur. We should expect certain things from our dogs. But, only if we have first taught them to give us those things.

Here Are 3 Things You Expect From Your Dog

My dog should not jump on people.

My dog is an adult and should not be going potty in the house.

My dog has no reason to destroy things when I’m gone.

Your dog is simply not measuring up to your expectations. What is wrong with this dog!

A wise and well-known horse trainer, Buck Brannaman once wrote in his book, Believe: “Discipline yourself as you would discipline your horse. As you look at your horse’s problem, it causes you to look at your own problems. It’s a never-ending loop.”

Let’s Apply This Expectation Loop to You and Your Dog

This should open your eyes about your reasonable expectations between you and your dog.

But, only if you are honest with yourself and sincerely want to apply this simple concept to your life with your dog.

I’ll be honest here too. It will take work and consistent application to teach your dog what you expect from him.

You will use less energy in the long run teaching your dog what you expect in comparison to the energy you spend correcting your dog.

The bonus is that in the process you will also deepen your relationship with your dog. I’m sure there are more, but I’ll break down these three dog behavior problems for you just in case I’ve struck a nerve.

Jumping Dog Problem

No one likes a dog jumping all over them. It just goes against our grain of social etiquette, right? Dogs jump to greet!

You taught him to greet this way.

Most of the jumping of your dog is a direct result of petting and rewarding the jumping as a puppy or new dog.

Plus you have not taught your dog what alternate behavior you expect as a better way to greet.

You should have begun the first day he came into your life. If you didn’t, it’s never too late to start. It may take you a few weeks (4 weeks) of consistent daily work but you’ll succeed if you work at it. Remember, each time you teach a sit to greet or keep 4 on the floor when greeting you or anyone else, it is one less time he jumps.

These are just 3 issues I see every day. Have I described your dog above? If not, then what are some of the expectations your dog is not meeting? Let me know in the comments. Might be a great article in the making!

Together We Can Raise A Happy and Obedient Dog

You got your dog for a reason. You wanted to share your life with a happy and loving dog. But now, your dog has big problems and life is not happy. I can help you get that happy, well behaved dog back. We’ll work together at your speed and both you and your dog will have fun every step of the way